AMCS K'gari Lockup

Share a marine-themed experience with dedicated ocean lovers to protect the waters and wildlife of Great Sandy Marine Park, K’gari (Fraser Island).

dates icon

15-19 August 2023

Icon-BLK-MoneyRasied

$3,105

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

3/5

3/5

Challenge Grade

Give Back to the Community

$3,000

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

AMCS Logo

Our oceans face more threats today than ever before.

Loss of habitat, pollution, overfishing, development, invasive species and the very real and immediate impacts of climate change are devastating marine habitats, species, communities and economies across our blue planet – and right here at home. 

As part of the K’gari Sandy Whale Experience 2023, you’ll raise vital funds to help the Australian Marine Conservation Society protect the waters and wildlife of the Great Sandy Marine Park, off the west coast of K’gari (Fraser Island). You'll have a fundraising target of $3,000 when taking on this challenge, all of which goes to Australian Marine Conservation Society.

Following well-worn paths, over five days, you’ll experience the incredible beauty of the world’s largest sand island – an enigmatic melange of tropical rainforest and white sand beaches, wild health and wetlands, sand dunes and coastal swamps.

Best of all, with every step you take, you’ll play an integral part in protecting our unique marine life and drive action to safeguard the future of our oceans.

kgari

How it works

Icon-BLK-MoneyRasied

Book with Confidence

Pay only $475* upfront to secure your place and pay the remaining balance in flexible instalments.

Cancel up to 90 days before travel with no penalty. For more details, see our FAQs.

 

*Non refundable.

fundraising icon

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Teamwork

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1: Tuesday 15 August 2023

Depart Brisbane for K’gari

We have an early start this morning, departing Brisbane and heading north along the Cooloola Coast. Along the way we will witness the wonder of Red Gorge and the Cooloola Coloured Sands, before spotting Double Island Point Lighthouse and National Park. We will make a stop at Rainbow Beach for lunch and a quick dip. From here, we board a 30-minute ferry to K’gari. As we cross the calm but deep waters, keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, sharks and stingrays. Once we’ve arrived on the world’s largest sand island, enjoy a 4WD tour and a relaxing 5km trek through the forest to Lake Wabby. This evening, we settle into our accommodation for the next 4 nights and enjoy our first team dinner together. 

Trekking Time: 1-2 hours 

Transfer Time: 4 hours 

Meals: L D

Day 2: Wednesday 16 August 2023

Whale Watching & Lake McKenzie 

K’gari is known to be Australia’s number one destination for whale watching and today we will have the opportunity to see this firsthand. We’ll begin bright and early transferring to our starting point, where we will board our boat for a front row seat to see these magnificent animals and their beauty.  In the afternoon we continue on to ‘Boorangoora’ Lake McKenzie. This evening before dinner, you may wish to enjoy a sunset beach walk. 

Trekking Time: 1-2 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Thursday 17 August 2023

Eli Creek & Lake Allom 

We begin the day by 4WD to our first beach of the day in the early morning, a favourite time to spot dingoes and sea eagles. We make a stop at One Tree Point and Rainbow Gorge to learn about the flora and fauna unique to this area and stories of the early townships on the island. Once we arrive at Eli Creek, the largest and fastest-flowing creek on the east coast, we walk along the creek boardwalk, along the banks of the river and relax in the shade. We continue to the shipwreck of the Maheno, which was beached on K’gari in 1935. Next up, we make our way to Lake Allom. From here, you can often spot freshwater turtles! 

Trekking Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Friday 18 August 2023

North K’gari 

Today we head further north on the island. We begin at Indian Head, gazing over the beach to the south, the headlands to the north and, if you’re lucky, spot turtles, sharks and rays in the ocean below. From here, we continue along the sand track to the beach and then on to the boardwalk. This boardwalk is situated on top of Middle Rock Headland, with great views of Champagne Pools and Waddy Point. We stop for a swim in the Champagne Pools, before hiking further to Waddy Point. We finish the day at Orchid Beach, before returning to our accommodation for our final night together. 

Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours

Meals: B L 

Day 5: Saturday 19 August 2023

Govi Creek and return to Brisbane 

For our final day, we enjoy a short hike to Govi Creek, nestled between melaleucas and sedges and across a wooden bridge. We travel north to the mouth of the creek and return via the old sand mining track. After this, it is sadly time to return to civilization as we return to the barge and arrive back in Brisbane around 5-7pm. Please do not book flights to depart before 9pm. 

Trekking distance: 1-2 hours 

Transfer Time: 4 hours 

Meals: B L

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-Star Resort based on twin share • Meals as per itinerary • Local guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary 

Does not include: Flights • Airport transfers • Pre & post tour accommodation in Brisbane • Travel insurance (highly recommended) • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses 

Note: This itinerary is operated by Sunrover Tours.

kgari8

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Experience the unique, untamed beauty of World Heritage K’gari (Fraser Island) and the surrounding seas of the Great Sandy Marine Park

  • Explore the largest sand island, home to the only rainforests in the world to grow on sand

  • Take action to safeguard the Great Sandy Marine Park

  • Trek pristine beaches teeming with wildlife and learn about the marine life that call the region home

  • Experience a once-in-a-lifetime event at this whale nursery where mothers bring their calves to be nurtured before making the 5,000km trek to the Antarctic

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The K’gari trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy the experience. You’ll be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You’re free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10–20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own? 

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures? 

the Australian Marine Conservation Society has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 18 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 7,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $44 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and the Australian Marine Conservation Society, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete full day hikes and ideally a hike over several days. You should aim to be able to walk for 6–8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Do I need to carry my luggage on trekking days? 

You’ll need to carry a day pack with personal items such as water, snacks, medications and spare clothing. The rest of your luggage will stay at your accommodation.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in a 3-star beach resort. All rooms have ensuites. The resort has a variety of facilities available for your use, such as swimming pools, restaurant, bakery and coffee shop, general store, bottle shop, tennis courts, a BBQ area, as well as fully equipped guest laundry facilities. The resort is dingo-fenced for your safety.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You’ll be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability. 

What to expect

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this when booking and we will pair you together.

What is the food like? 

Breakfast is continental and includes toast, cereal, tea, coffee and juice. You can expect cold meat and salad rolls/wraps, cold drinks, fruit, muesli bars and biscuits for lunch. Dinner is served at the resort restaurant and options include burgers, salads, fish and chips, etc.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You’ll be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid-trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

We have prepared a detailed COVID-19 Safety Management Plan to account for the wide variety of scenarios that may impact your departure. In the instance that the adventure is unable to proceed due to COVID-19, alternative departure arrangements will be provided where possible. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/our-covid-response.

Are COVID-19 vaccinations required for this adventure?

Inspired Adventures requires that all travellers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a valid medical certificate issued.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You’ll have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we’re looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we’ll review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you’ll each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to the Australian Marine Conservation Society? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to the Australian Marine Conservation Society. Only the registration fee and travel costs are payable to Inspired Adventures/Travel.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for the Australian Marine Conservation Society are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Costs and payments

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is: $3,105

You are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for the Australian Marine Conservation Society.

Is the travel cost guaranteed?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. Due to the unpredictability of the impact of COVID-19 on borders and safety requirements, our ground operators may be required to change their operations in a way that could impact cost. In this event, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee if absolutely necessary. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you’ll be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need, including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You’ll receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures, to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It’s up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you’ll need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonials

“The trip was great; fun and adverturous.”

– Rachel Supple, MS Research K'gari 2022

“A very special experience with so many wonderful people who inspired me with their brave and kind hearts.”

– Anna Morris, 2018

“An amazing and uplifting experience with a bunch of like-minded, inspiring people, led by a gifted and passionate guide and supported by highly skilled professionals from Inspired Adventures.”

– Wendy Phillpotts, 2019

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.